The Rematch: Dallas Versus Phoenix On April 1st

Two weeks back, on March 14th, the Phoenix Suns edged the Dallas Mavericks 129-127 in a double overtime classic.

This game was filled with amazing plotlines and twists. [Dirk Nowitzki->http://www.google.ca/] missed two late free throws that would have sealed a victory for Dallas. Steve Nash was epic, hitting for 10 points in the final minute to force overtime. And Amare Stoudemire nailed 16 of 19 shots and finished with a game high 41 points.

On Sunday, like a pair of heavyweight prize fighters, these same two teams meet in the rematch.

Think Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, ‘Thrilla in Manila’ style. Think Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, the sequel. And somewhere, behind a bush, Don King is probably lurking, devising a way to get in on the action.

The hype is warranted. Fans and journalists have been waiting for Sunday’s game. It could also settle the MVP debate between Nash and Nowitzki.

Here’s two things we should we look for from the Mavericks in the rematch:

1) Dallas likes to defend Steve Nash with a big body. On Sunday, Josh Howard could draw the MVP on defense.

2) Dallas has nobody that can guard Amare Stoudemire. That includes Kevin Willis.

And here’s two things we should look for from the Suns in the rematch:

1) Phoenix needs a big game from Boris Diaw. The pride of France has Houdini tendencies and can quickly go from voila to straight vanishing. Two weeks back, Diaw contributed just 4 points and 2 assists in 20 minutes against Dallas.

2) Phoenix has to start playing their bench. The Suns typically use 7-8 players. Against Dallas, in a double overtime game, they only used 8 players. This won’t do. No modern team has ever won an NBA Title with such a short rotation. Mike D’Antoni, the Suns’ coach, must figure out a way to give his bench consistent minutes.

Basketball fans have been waiting for Sunday’s rematch between Dallas and Phoenix. Ironically, it’s April Fools Day, so expect the unexpected. But you can also expect an entertaining game from these rival teams.